The HoloLens is an awesome piece of tech, but when will we see a non-developer version? Read the latest rumours on the HoloLens 2 features, specification and UK launch date.

We investigate the next HoloLens headset

Escaping reality seems to be all the rage, whether it be virtual reality augmented reality or mixed reality. Microsoft has impressed with the HoloLens but what can it do with a sequel? Here we take a look at the rumoured HoloLens 2 release date, specs and features. Also see: VR headsets buying guide.

Although the HoloLens is a developer only headset, Microsoft looks like it might have much bigger plans for the HoloLens 2 or might even be jumping straight to the HoloLens 3.

When is the HoloLens 2 release date?

You might have never tried the HoloLens (it's still only available to developers) but Microsoft is already looking to a new version, viaThe Inquirer. Speaking at the Bett Show in London, Roger Walkden, Senior Director of HoloLens said that "this is version one, and there will be future versions." He also confirmed that sales of the existing model are in the thousands.

Don’t get too excited just yet because we’re a way off from getting the HoloLens 2, but that said there appear to be details on when we can expect it. The Leaker suggests that “if everything goes well” the HoloLens 2 release date will be during 2018.

The latest news is that we might not see a HoloLens 2 with Microsoft potentially skipping straight to a third-generation launch - an even more advanced model. Thurrott says "By skipping what was version two on their roadmap, the company can accelerate version three which will be closer to a generational leap and help keep Microsoft ahead of the competition."

His sources say we can expect this model in 2019 and Microsoft's comment on the subject is that "Mixed reality is the future of computing, and Microsoft HoloLens is the future and present of mixed reality. Our commitment requires no roadmap."

What will HoloLens 2 look like? What are the rumoured features?

As per the article linked above, it seems Microsoft is working on two different HoloLens 2 designs. It’s early days so whether or not both make it to market is anyone’s guess.

The first (top of page) looks pretty similar to the existing HoloLens headset which sits around the top of your head and suspends a ski goggle style lens in front of your eyes. The site says you’ll be able to make your voice sound like Batman and see real looking virtual objects because the device will be able to create virtual objects via shadows.

A second HoloLens device looks more like a pair of smart glasses akin to Google Glass. It appears these will be more suited to wearing for longer periods, possibly out and about without the need for powerful processing to operating.

The HoloLens 2 glasses appear to have a camera mounted in the middle as well as another sensor, possibly Infrared.

As more details about the HoloLens 2 trickle online we’ll update this article with the latest news.